Charity calls for more support for deaf students as they receive A-Level results

The National Deaf Children’s Society (NDCS) has called on the UK Government to address a “shocking shortfall” in achievements for deaf A-Level students, as this year’s cohort receive their results.

The percentage of students receiving either an A or A* in England, Wales and Northern Ireland fell from 44.8% last year to 36.4% this year.

The rate is still higher than 2019’s 25.4%, which was before the coronavirus pandemic and the last time young people sat in-person exams.

However, NDCS has expressed concerns over the level of support provided to deaf students, referencing the fact that less than half of them achieved at least two A-Levels or equivalent last year – compared to two-thirds of their hearing peers.

Martin McLean, senior policy adviser at the charity, said: “Deaf students across the country will be picking up their results today and some will have achieved less than they could have because they didn’t get the right support.

“It’s crucial that they get the support they need and the Government must address this shocking shortfall as part of its ongoing SEND review.

“Education is a right, not a privilege, and deaf students deserve the same opportunities as everyone else.”

The Department for Education published its review of provisions for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) in March this year, almost three years after it was launched by then-education secretary Gavin Williamson.

The proposals included a new single system to support disabled children and their families, as well as a digitalised process for Education, Health and Care plans (EHCPs).

Commenting ahead of students receiving their results, current Education Secretary James Cleverly said every young person “should be proud of their achievements”.

He said: “Not only have they studied throughout the pandemic, but they are the first group in three years to sit exams. For that, I want to congratulate them and say a huge thank you to those who helped them get to this point.

“Despite the nerves that people will feel, I want to reassure anyone collecting their results that whatever your grades, there has never been a better range of opportunities available.

“Whether going on to one of our world-leading universities, a high-quality apprenticeship, or the world of work, students have exciting options as they prepare to take their next steps.”

By Liam O’Dell. Liam is an award-winning Deaf freelance journalist and campaigner from Bedfordshire. He can be found talking about disability, theatre, politics and more on Twitter and on his website.